The bustling and high-stress atmosphere of airports can be challenging for neurodiverse individuals. To address this concern, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN) have launched of a series of interactive travel training videos that simulates the travel experience from the curb to cloud, enabling individuals to familiarize themselves with various travel processes and empowering them to approach real travel situations with confidence.
“YVR is a diverse global hub, and we remain committed to meeting the highest standards of accessibility and inclusion,” said Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO at Vancouver International Airport. “A little bit of planning ahead can make all the difference to a travel journey. Through our partnership with PAFN and AIDE Canada, YVR is proud to offer a valuable resource to neurodiverse individuals and others, enabling anyone who may feel anxious about the experience to prepare for air travel with confidence.”
The three-part series, developed with the participation of key members of the airport ecosystem, covers important travel processes including check-in, security screening procedures, aircraft boarding, and clearing customs after an international trip. Designed to provide practical guidance, the interactive tool in the videos allows users to navigate typical airport scenarios, interact with personnel, and observe the outcomes of their choices, fostering self-assurance for real-life travel situations.
“We are delighted to support neurodiverse communities by introducing the wonder of travel and what they can expect through these interactive travel training videos. By seeing an Air Canada aircraft and staff in these videos, and together with our adoption and recognition of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we hope neurodiverse people and their families can develop the confidence to take a trip soon,” said Christianna Scott, Director – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Air Canada.
The videos, which feature neurodiverse actor Kayla Tellier are available on AIDE Canada’s website.
Training
In addition to supporting the training video series, YVR is providing comprehensive neurodiverse inclusion training to its employees, from frontline workers such as Guest Experience and Green Coat volunteers, to staff in a range of areas, including Fire and Rescue personnel.
The training programs focus on best practices for communication and support to those in the neurodiverse community. As of April, 97% of YVR’s guest experience team had completed the neurodiverse inclusion training. Sessions are ongoing and have been integrated into YVR’s onboarding curriculum for new volunteers joining our Green Coat volunteer program.
More Information about YVR’s accessibility plan is available at www.YVR.ca/accessibility